Monday, 14 June 2010

Sustainability - working with our local community

Sustainable development is critical in the world today. We at Seaview Wildlife Encounter are embracing the opportunity to contribute towards the conservation and protection of the natural environment. The Park has resolved to improve its environmental practices.During the past few months we have been sourcing more foodstuffs to sustainably support our local economy i.e. Velvet crabs are now sustainably sourced from local waters (supplied by a local fishmonger) as a food item for our Otters. Sprats (the main feed for Penguins and Pelicans) are sourced through a reputable British supplier.In our catering division we are now buying all our milk from a local farm; and when shopping for foodstuffs and provisions for our Tortoiseshell cafe, locally-grown produce is selected in preference to imported produce.This week our chef, Graham, has started making delicious fresh, crab sandwiches for our visitors - these can be enjoyed with a cool, crisp glass of Sauvignon blanc (or fresh fruit juice) - in the knowledge that the crab has been bought from a local family-run business in Bembridge who sustainably source their produce from local Island waters.These are just a couple of examples of how each and every one of us can make a difference to the environment just by making small changes in our habits and buying patterns.Come in and enjoy a special sandwich with us soon!